Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov Lives Up to His Own Rules
Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov once again stood by the unspoken code of hockey during a high-tempered clash in Toronto. His powerful check on Maple Leafs forward Scott Laughton in the second period not only removed Laughton from the game but also set the stage for an immediate fight.
“Zadorov’s hit on Scott Laughton sparked a bout in Toronto.”
Earlier this season, Zadorov voiced his frustration when Buffalo’s Jordan Greenway declined to fight him following a similar heavy hit that sidelined Elias Lindholm. This time, when Toronto’s Bobby McMann stepped in to challenge him, Zadorov did not hesitate.
The Fight with Bobby McMann
The altercation was rough but balanced. McMann, smaller by about five inches and giving up reach to Zadorov, managed to land several glancing blows to the back of the Bruins defenseman’s helmet. Zadorov, in turn, connected with a few short uppercuts before both were separated by officials.
Neither player appeared significantly hurt as they skated to the penalty box, each assessed five-minute majors for fighting. The moment underscored Zadorov’s readiness to back up his actions on the ice and his adherence to the sport’s enduring unwritten rules.
Author’s Summary
Zadorov’s fight against McMann showed his respect for hockey’s code—if you deliver a tough hit, you must answer for it, and he did so without hesitation.